The event at the iconic Natural History Museum brought together changemakers, business leaders, and climate ambassadors from around the world, just six weeks before global leaders gather in Belém for COP30 to discuss urgent climate action.
The engagement, titled ‘Countdown to COP30: mobilising action for climate and nature’, was hosted jointly by the Natural History Museum and the UK Government. During their visit to the Natural History Museum in South Kensington, The King and The Prince of Wales viewed compelling photography by the Woodland Trust before meeting business and finance leaders who are spearheading projects to protect forests and woodlands both in the UK and internationally. These meetings highlighted the crucial role of private sector investment in environmental conservation.
His Majesty and His Royal Highness with representatives from Brazil, the host nation of COP30, including the Brazilian Ambassador to the UK, Antonio de Aguiar Patriota, and Minister of Health, Alexandre Padilha. These discussions were particularly significant as Brazil prepares to lead global climate negotiations next month.
The iconic Hintze Hall served as the backdrop for displays showcasing innovative British solutions to some of the world’s most pressing climate and nature challenges. The showcase brought together leading voices from across sectors, including private enterprise, scientific research, and environmental charities, demonstrating the breadth of UK expertise in tackling environmental issues.
Throughout the reception, guests were able to watch powerful films highlighting the importance of environmental protection. These included “Guardians”, launched by The Prince of Wales earlier this year to celebrate the vital work of rangers protecting our planet, and “The Speeches: 50 Years of Speaking Up for the Planet”, which chronicles The King’s decades-long advocacy for environmental causes.
The Royal Family has maintained a longstanding commitment to environmental protection and conservation. The late Duke of Edinburgh was instrumental in founding the World Wildlife Fund, establishing a royal tradition of environmental leadership that continues today.
For more than five decades, The King has used his unique platform to champion sustainability and emphasise the fundamental connection between humanity and nature. Widely recognised as a leading voice on environmental issues, His Majesty has shaped global understanding of sustainability challenges through founding organisations such as the Sustainable Markets Initiative and delivering keynote speeches at international events, including previous COP summits.
The Prince of Wales shares this environmental passion, having taken on numerous conservation charities and founded The Earthshot Prize in 2020. This global environmental prize and platform is designed to discover, accelerate, and scale groundbreaking solutions to repair and regenerate our planet.
The event underscored the Royal Family’s continued commitment to environmental advocacy at a critical moment for global climate action, as world leaders prepare for what many consider to be one of the most important climate summits in recent years.
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